Many businesses are—or soon will be—unable to meet their obligations. Not all businesses in distress are unsuccessful; sometimes, as in the economic circumstances arising from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and the governmental directives tailored to address the related public health issues, even successful businesses must confront closures and steep declines in demand that could not have been anticipated, and may find it necessary or desirable to restructure their existing debt obligations.

This Briefing addresses the usual manner in which solvent voluntary liquidations proceed. The discussion is subject to the particular provisions of the Memorandum and Articles of Association of any company seeking a voluntary liquidation.

Where a company is not a regulated entity, has no liabilities and is able to pay its debts as they come due, a voluntary winding up and dissolution may be commenced by a resolution of directors.

Where it is proposed to appoint a voluntary liquidator, the directors of the company shall: